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Transportation ‘lockbox amendment’ approved in Illinois

CHICAGO- Illinois voters have approved a constitutional amendment aimed at making sure transportation-related funds aren’t used for other purposes.

The measure was the only lawmaker-generated ballot measure this year and had bipartisan support.

The so-called “lockbox amendment” will keep funds generated through tolls, taxes and other related transportation sources from being spent elsewhere.

Supporters of the measure included unions and the construction industry, who argue it’ll boost safety by protecting infrastructure. A coalition backing the amendment says that since 2003 nearly $7 billion in transportation-related funds have been used for other things.

Some opponents, including social service groups, questioned why funds for transportation should be protected over other things.

To pass, the measure needed either 60 percent of those voting on the measure or a majority of those voting in the election.